News
Galapagos Islands & Fish Faces: The April NUPG Meeting
On the second Monday of each month the Northern Underwater Photography Group meet for a curry at the Gurkha Grill, followed by a meeting from 8-10pm to discuss all things underwater photography.
This month those attending were treated to a talk from Josef Litt about the Galapagos Islands. Josef has recently published a book on the islands and so had been invited to speak to the group, focusing on the diving and underwater photography. Each month there is also a competition for members and this month the theme was Fish Face(s).
Josef kicked off the meeting and started by talking about the geography, history and creation of the marine reserve in the Galapagos. He moved on to discuss the best ways to dive the islands, with liveaboard options for Wolf and Darwin Islands, whilst also suggesting an island snorkelling tour to get some of the more unusual and rewarding shots.
His marine life images often made the audience gasp, with outstanding photos of whalesharks, eagle rays, schooling hammerhead sharks, marine iguanas, Mola mola, sealions, penguins, turtles and birds. Josef also discussed the underwater photography conditions, with cool water, plenty of current and what he describes as low visibility, although when pushed, said it was 10-15m – which is pretty good in our books!
Josef’s talk was full of essential information and packed with funny anecdotes and was one of the most enjoyable we have been to. He clearly has a wealth of knowledge about these islands and a love of them too. His book is beautiful and we look forward to reviewing it for Scubaverse later in the month.
The Fish Face competition saw a drop in the usual number of entries, perhaps due to many members being away on Easter holidays. The winner was a gorgeous and funny portrait of a UK shanny by Elaine White. Nick Robertson-Brown took second place with his gaping Basking Shark shot from Cornwall. It was great to see UK species featuring so highly. The compact winner was Keith Major with his image of a scorpionfish in the Red Sea.
The next event for the NUPG is the Spring Warm-Up at Capernwray on the 28th April. This will be an informal meet up for any underwater photographers that would like to attend, take some photos and discuss how to improve as the UK season gets into full swing.
For more information about the Northern Underwater Photography Group please click here.
Blogs
BTM Travel: Your Gateway to Unforgettable Dive Adventures
Who We Are
BTM Travel is a boutique dive travel agency based in Munich, Germany, led by a passionate team of seasoned diving professionals.
- Marcel Wilpernig, our founder, has explored nearly every corner of the underwater world and brings over a decade of experience in the diving industry.
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While a significant portion of our clientele comes from Germany, our reach extends globally—from Bangladesh to California. BTM Travel is closely connected to Behind the Mask, an underwater videography network that inspires us to bring divers to the world’s most breathtaking ocean destinations.
What We Do
BTM Travel specializes in group diving adventures and tailored big animal experiences:
- Group Travel: We organize intimate trips to premier dive spots, led by expert photographers or wildlife guides for an unforgettable adventure. The vibe? Laid-back and adrenaline-filled.
- Tailor-Made Trips: For seasoned divers, we craft bespoke itineraries, offering insider tips on where to go, when to go, and what to expect. Our expertise ensures realistic expectations and unforgettable experiences.
Our focus lies on big animal diving, delivering the thrill of encounters with marine giants. While we love macro and reef diving, we know our true strength lies in providing high-octane experiences for adventurers.
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Find Out More
For more information about itineraries, destinations, and bespoke dive adventures, contact BTM Travel:
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News
Dive into Adventure: Limited Space Available for January Socorro Liveaboard Trip with Oyster Diving
Socorro Giant Mantas, Sharks and Dolphins – 8-16th January 2025
Oyster Diving is offering an unforgettable opportunity to experience one of the world’s most extraordinary dive destinations – Socorro Island. With only one male space left for this January’s liveaboard adventure, divers are invited to join an exclusive trip to explore the waters of Socorro, renowned for its remarkable marine life and incredible dive experiences.
Unmatched Diving in Socorro
Socorro is home to a unique population of giant oceanic mantas that actively seek interaction with divers and snorkelers, making it one of the best places in the world to encounter these majestic creatures. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – the waters surrounding Socorro are also teeming with marine life, including schooling hammerheads and silky sharks, over 10 other species of sharks, playful bottlenose dolphins that love to interact with divers, large schools of pelagic fish, and, during the season, humpback whales.
Luxury Aboard the Nautilus Belle Amie
Diving in such an extraordinary location is made even more special by the Nautilus Belle Amie. Launched in 2015, this modern, spacious liveaboard yacht is designed with divers in mind, ensuring comfort and luxury throughout the trip. The boat offers various suite options, including twin rooms and superior double suites, all with the ambiance of a boutique hotel. Divers will spend 8 days aboard the Belle Amie, with all meals, guided dives, and soft drinks included.
Pricing and Availability
This exclusive Socorro liveaboard trip is available for the following prices:
- Twin Room (2 people sharing a Stateroom): £3360 per person
- Superior Double Suite (2 people sharing): £3860 per person
Both prices include Socorro Island fees. A port fee of $35 is payable upon arrival.
Additional Costs:
- Return economy flights: Approx. £1,000 – £1,300 per person (prices confirmed prior to booking)
- One night hotel B&B accommodation before the liveaboard: Approx. £100 per person
Book Now
With only one spot left, this opportunity to explore Socorro’s spectacular underwater world is sure to fill up fast. Interested divers are encouraged to get in touch with Oyster Diving Holidays to secure their place today.
For more information and bookings, please contact:
Oyster Diving Holidays
Phone: 0800 699 0243
Email: info@oysterdiving.com
Don’t miss your chance to dive with mantas, sharks, dolphins, and humpbacks in one of the world’s most pristine marine environments!
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